DUMAGUETE CITY, July 29 (PIA) -- Amid the COVID-19 crisis, Dumaguete City Mayor Felipe Antonio Remollo has expressed his support to the plans and programs of Pres. Rodrigo Duterte as stated during the latter's 5th State of the Nation Address (SONA) held July 27, 2020.
The mayor agreed with the President that it is high time for the adoption of online transactions in banking, commerce, schools, and delivery of services particularly the Grab Trike in the city to minimize person-to-person contact as a means to contain the transmission of COVID-19 and towards a more progressive and competitive nation.
Remollo also shares the frustrations of Pres. Duterte over unscrupulous individuals who have taken advantage of the COVID-19 pandemic and appealed for everyone’s cooperation by setting aside political bickering.
The mayor also reiterated his support on the proposed imposition of death penalty for big-time illegal drugs traffickers.
Upon the invitation of the Philippine Congress, local government officials led by Remollo witnessed the Joint Congressional Session for the SONA of Pres. Duterte which was carried live through videoconferencing.
The President reported the gains of his administration in building important infrastructure projects and in fighting to contain the spread of COVID-19, making special mention of the laudable efforts of medical frontliners, local officials, and the barangay officials who for months have been implementing the measures and policies designed to combat the transmission of coronavirus in their localities.
He also presented his administration’s agenda for the coming year, including the proposed legislative measures.
In his remarks, Duterte made it clear that he will not allow classes requiring physical face-to-face interaction unless a vaccine against COVID-19 is developed and available in the market.
The President also criticized the heavy concentration of power and resources in the hands of oligarchs, particularly in the energy, water, and communication sectors.
He warned the giant telecommunication companies to improve their services by the end of the year.
Recognizing the threat of the illegal drugs trade to the nation’s prosperity and well-being, Duterte is pushing for the enactment of a law imposing death penalty on those engaged in the trade.
The House of Representatives used videoconferencing technology to comply with the government's strict health and safety protocols, which significantly reduced to only 50 persons who were allowed to physically enter the plenary session for the President's 5th SONA. (jct/PIA7 Negros Oriental with reports from CPIO Dems Demecillo)
Source: Philippines Information Agency (pia.gov.ph)
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